Hi
I am a complete newbie on this forum and relatively new to the duathlon concept. I was looking at doing a duathlon and came across the X duo concept the other day. I love running and riding through the bush and thought that this sounded like my sort of event.

Does anyone know much about these events, and if so, what do I need as far as equipment goes. I've only got a cheap mountain bike and standard road running shoes. I run on and off, average prob. about 30kms per week and ride when I can, usually weekend for an hour or so. I consider myself reasonably fit, can run 10kms in around 48 mins and ride 28kms in an hour (on the road).
Can anyone point me in the right direction?

Hi,
which state are you in?

I'm in Vic country

Hey trailrun67

Firstly, welcome to the forum. I do triathlons, haven't tried a duathlon yet but I did do the X-terra off road triathlon at Daylesford earlier this year. It was a swim in the lake, mtb on the fire trails and run on paths/trails. Only did the shorter distance.

It was so much fun!!! Harder than a road race but much more fun. A bit of mud, a few puddles, lots of hills (not too long thank goodness), and the volunteers were the best I've experienced at a race.

In terms of equipment, I did it on a cheap bike but put cages on the pedals (I recommend for the hills). I also ran in road running shoes (they got muddy though, which I was a bit miffed about ). If it's wet, wear a pair of shoes you don't mind getting trashed.

I would say you will get through it fine with your current equipment and level of fitness. Do a few "brick" sessions in training before the race to get used to running afer riding and vice versa. This is the part that I find takes the most getting used to even when you're fit. Your legs just don't want to run after all that hard pedalling, esp. on hills!!

If you enjoy trail running, you'll love off-road racing!

By the way, when and where is the race??

I ran the run legs of the X Duo at the You Yangs last year (a friend rode the bike leg) - it's a lot of fun, and you'll be fine with the equipment you have. Enjoy!

Hi

Thanks for the great info. I mainly run on footpaths and roads, but trail runs are so much more enjoyable.
I live in Horsham in regional Vic, it is flat as flat, but we do have a couple of nice tracks along the Wimmera River, great to ride the bike and run.
Just on another topic, probably in the wrong section, but does anyone have any suggestions as to the best socks to wear? I find thick socks more comfy, but also tend to make me sweat more?

There are a quite a few topics on socks somewhere. I wear cycling socks usually. From what I've read a few people go for Target coolmax socks. I think they're made of stuff that wicks away sweat. Incidentally, I noticed socks are on sale at Target starting tomorrow so you may want to go pick up a pair

Thanks
Appreciate the advice . I'll do just that